A case of viral meningitis has been confirmed at Rock Hill Elementary School, but it is believed to be an isolated incident, said Rock Hill Superintendent Lloyd Evans.

According to information provided by the Lawrence County Health Department, meningitis is inflammation of the tissues that covers the brain and spinal cord. Almost all cases occur as isolated instances and are found most often in children.

Unlike bacterial meningitis, viral meningitis is considered non-contagious and can only be spread through contact with respiratory secretions or fecal matter. It is not necessary to totally isolate the infected person and anyone around someone infected should wash their hands thoroughly.

The most common symptoms are fever, severe headache, stiff neck and fatigue. They usually occur within one week of exposure. Most people are exposed to these viruses during their life, but few actually develop meningitis.

The case was first reported last Friday and confirmed by the mother of the student Monday. The school disinfected all of the classrooms, door knobs and restrooms in the entire building, Evans said.

Although the school does this regularly on rotation, officials decided to do it ahead of schedule just to be safe, he said.

The child was not at school all of last week and doctors have cleared the child to return to school Sept. 23, once their immune system builds up, Evans said.

"With the child already being out a week, we felt the danger to our students was minimal," he said "The child has been out of school longer than the incubation period and no additional cases have shown up."

Evans said he was happy to hear that the child was out of the hospital and he was relieved that it was viral meningitis instead of bacterial because viral is considered non-contagious and not as severe by medical personnel.

The school consulted with the nurse and local medical personnel as soon as the case was confirmed, Evans said. Officials also talked with a few concerned parents who had heard about the case and tried to alleviate their fears.

If any additional cases show up, all parents will be notified and community meetings will be called, Evans said, but at this time he believes this is only an isolated incident. Michael Caldwell/The Ironton Tribune